Manatee County Area Transit will suspend collecting fares on Aug. 26 and on Nov. 4, which are election days in the county and across Florida.

Commissioners unanimously agreed to suspend regular MCAT fares on all fixed routes. Buses and trolleys will not deviate from their established fixed-routes or schedules. Paratransit riders can call 941-748-2317 in advance to schedule a ride to their polling place.

Commissioners also decided to cancel Aug. 26 and Nov. 4 meetings and directed county staff to avoid scheduling board meetings on election days in the future.

"The actions demonstrate the county’s commitment to 'getting out the vote' by promoting participation in the election process and helping members of the public exercise their right to vote," the county said in a news release.